Historical Marker

New Hope First Baptist Church and Cemetery

Historical marker location:
200 W New Hope Dr, Cedar Park, Texas
( 200 W New Hope Dr, off US 183)
Marker size: 27" x 42"

Although Baptist worship services may have been conducted in this area as early as 1848, this church was not formally chartered until 1868. On October 22 of that year the organizational meeting was held in the home of James M. and Elizabeth Trammell, pioneers of the rural Block House community. Six charter members formed the New Hope Missionary Baptist Church of Christ, and the Rev. Thomas F. Bacon was chosen to serve as the first pastor.

The church cemetery was first used in 1869 for the burial of Martha Elizabeth Inman, the wife of deacon S. C. Inman. Other marked gravesites include those of settlers who were prominent early leaders of the church and community.

For over a century the New Hope First Baptist Church has been instrumental in the development of the Cedar Park area. From 1871 until 1919 the church building was also used for the public school. Pastors have included such leading Baptist ministers as missionary J. E. Hamilton, who died in Brazil of yellow fever, and the Rev. D. E. Simpson, board member and first treasurer of the Texas Baptist Children's Home, who was baptized and ordained here. (1983)

As one of the most visible programs of the Texas Historical Commission (THC), historical markers commemorate diverse topics in Texas history, including: the history and architecture of houses, commercial and public buildings, religious congregations, and military sites; events that changed the course of local and state history; and individuals who have made lasting contributions to the state, community organizations, and businesses.

gravesites Baptist denomination churches
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Texas random facts
Williamson County, located in central Texas, has a rich and diverse history that dates back thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Tonkawa, Comanche, and Lipan Apache. These tribes thrived on the abundant natural resources and utilized the land for hunting and gathering.

The region was first settled by European pioneers in the mid-19th century. The establishment of Fort Tumlinson in 1839 provided protection to settlers, and the population grew steadily with the arrival of more immigrants in search of new opportunities. In 1848, the county was officially organized and named after Robert McAlpin Williamson, a judge and soldier in the Republic of Texas.

During the Civil War, Williamson County faced significant challenges. Many residents joined the Confederate Army, and the county became a hotbed of conflict due to its location on the frontier between Union and Confederate territories. After the war, the area was able to rebuild and experienced a period of economic growth, driven by agriculture, cattle ranching, and the emergence of small towns and rural communities.

In the 20th century, Williamson County continued to develop and adapt to changing times. The discovery of oil in the early 1900s brought economic prosperity to the region, and the county experienced a boom in population and infrastructure. Today, Williamson County is a thriving part of the greater Austin metropolitan area, known for its strong economy, vibrant communities, and commitment to preserving its historical roots.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Williamson County, Texas.

  • 1804 - The area that is now Williamson County is settled by Native American tribes, including the Tonkawa, Lipan Apache, and Comanche.
  • 1836 - Texas gains independence from Mexico.
  • 1838 - The Texas legislature establishes Williamson County, named after Robert McAlpin Williamson, a leader in the fight for Texas independence.
  • 1848 - The Mexican-American War ends and the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo is signed, officially establishing the Rio Grande as the boundary between Texas and Mexico.
  • 1850 - The population of the county reaches 1,027.
  • 1876 - The Texas State Capitol building is completed in Austin, which becomes the seat of government for Williamson County.
  • 1881 - The International-Great Northern Railroad reaches Georgetown, bringing economic growth and development to the county.
  • 1907 - The county courthouse, located in Georgetown, is completed.
  • 1930s - The Great Depression hits Williamson County, causing a decline in the local economy.
  • 1950s - The county experiences a period of growth and prosperity, with the population increasing significantly.
  • 1990s - Development and suburbanization accelerate in Williamson County, with the county becoming one of the fastest-growing areas in the United States.